In search of issues to do in Cozumel throughout your cruise trip? Don’t waste your time with boring “to do lists” when you’ll be able to simply deal with the perfect this island has to supply!
After studying by means of this text you’ll know EXACTLY what try to be doing throughout your go to to Cozumel, Mexico. Among the issues on this record are simply going to leap off the web page at you. So, get pleasure from!
Over 3 million folks cruise to Mexico’s most populated island yearly and all the mainstream cruise strains together with Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC, Princess Cruises go to the island. There’s a purpose it’s one of the vital visited cruise ports on the earth.
As many as 8 cruise ships might be in port at one time.
Personally, I really like visiting Cozumel. I really like the climate, folks, surroundings, seashores, and total vibe. Each time I go to I discover one thing new, so this put up will element some distinctive and enjoyable experiences you’ll be able to have at this incredible cease alongside your cruise.
Planning what to do in Cozumel forward of time is usually a bit daunting. There’s a lot to do and see on this lovely and unique location.
From the pristine coral reefs and countless seashores to the plentiful purchasing on the town, Cozumel has one thing for everybody. Oh, and there may be even one thing for the Indiana Jones in you if you wish to discover some archeological websites.
The climate in Cozumel is about pretty much as good because it will get all year long. Common temperatures are within the 70’s and 80’s (Fahrenheit).
On this put up we gives you among the greatest issues to do in Cozumel together with some useful data on the best way to get across the island, what to anticipate, the place to go, and many others.
A bit of data on Cozumel
There are over 100,000 folks residing at this municipality which is simply off the jap coast of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. The biggest metropolis is San Miguel which is correct close to the cruise ports on the west finish of the island.
The economic system of Cozumel depends closely on tourism, so the folks there shall be very glad that will help you and be sure you have a nice expertise.
Many instances I’ve had locals on the island assist me out or level me in the suitable route all whereas asking for nothing in return.
There are even particular automobiles that drive across the island to be able to assist any vacationers which have damaged down and need assistance. A service that’s supplied without spending a dime.
Cozumel is usually flat with the best level being simply 50 ft above sea degree. As you journey out of city you’ll discover the mangrove forests that dominates the panorama inland whereas each rocky and sandy seashores encompass the outside.
Do you’ll want to know Spanish? Most individuals residing in Cozumel converse English and might perceive you completely high-quality. However making an attempt to study a couple of Spanish phrases and phrases may be very a lot appreciated.
Cruise ports in Cozumel: How far are they from downtown?
It is a little complicated to those that have by no means been to Cozumel earlier than. Even when you’ve got been to Cozumel earlier than you may get off the ship and never acknowledge your environment since you might be at a totally totally different terminal than earlier than.
There are 3 totally different cruise ship piers in Cozumel. One is near downtown and the opposite two are a couple of miles out. So, let’s have a look at every terminal and its location.
- Punta Langosta. This pier is the closest to the downtown space, solely a few 5-minute stroll. You may be a part of a strolling tour of San Miguel or simply discover by yourself with out having to stroll very far in any respect.
- Worldwide Pier. That is the place among the bigger cruise ships will dock: ships like Royal Caribbean Oasis class ships and bigger Norwegian Cruise Line ships. That is the oldest cruise pier in Cozumel and is about 3 miles from downtown.
- Puerta Maya. This pier was constructed by Carnival Cruise Line and is simply used for Carnival owned ships. It’s proper subsequent to Worldwide Pier. It’s been nicknamed “Little Cozumel” as many outlets, eating places, and fashionable facilities are supplied proper throughout the terminal space.
Each Worldwide Pier and Puerta Maya are about 3 miles from San Miguel, however it’s a protected and scenic stroll to the downtown space which I’ve achieved a couple of instances. Taxis are low cost, however when you’ve got further time the stroll is doable.
Typically, ships should anchor simply offshore if it’s a really busy day with 7 or 8 cruise ships coming in. In these circumstances the ships will tender passengers to among the smaller piers close to Puerta Maya.
Learn how to journey round Cozumel
Cozumel does have a good measurement airport in case you are pondering of flying straight there. One factor I really like about cruising is that it offers you a sampling of various locations you could then revisit as soon as you discover what you want.
Renting a car
There’s a plethora of choices for renting a car and driving round Cozumel as properly. The island is simple to navigate in a matter of a pair hours should you don’t make too many stops.
One of the best ways to tour Cozumel in your rental is to begin by heading south and drive alongside the shoreline. For those who’re driving a scooter or bike you should have your personal street to journey on, making the journey stress-free. The additional you get away from the town the extra open and serene the panorama turns into.
How huge is Cozumel? The entire island is 28 miles lengthy and about 10 miles vast. I’ve rented each vehicles and scooters to drive round Cozumel. (See map at backside of article)
One factor that ought to be famous about renting a automotive, although. For those who do occur to wreck the car in any method you might be required to pay for the repairs earlier than you permit the island. I’ve by no means had any mishaps, however I’ve heard that this may be a difficulty.
You may lease something from a dune buggy to a VW Beetle to a scooter and even motorbike in order for you. There are even Harley excursions you’ll be able to take.
As quickly as you get off the ship you will see distributors who’re capable of finding you nearly any kind of auto to lease if you wish to discover by yourself.
Renting Bikes and Scooters
Among the downtown space can get crowded with vehicles and other people, however if you wish to enterprise out by yourself renting a motorbike is likely to be a very good possibility. There are a lot of outlets that may lease scooters and bikes. For those who don’t wish to need to work an excessive amount of electrical scooters space accessible too. And if you wish to go seashore hopping in your bike you will get one with fatter tires.
Taxis in Cozumel
Taxis are straightforward and inexpensive in Cozumel. The costs are set, and also you don’t want to barter. There’s a barely greater worth when you’ve got greater than 4 folks and a bit extra when you’ve got 6-8 folks in your group.
You may pay with US {dollars}, however will probably be cheaper should you trade for pesos first and use them. Bank cards are usually not accepted by taxi drivers so you will have to pay in money. Additionally, a 10-15% tip is appreciated.
Listed here are some costs you should utilize as a pattern for taxis charges. (These costs will greater than doubtless be totally different while you journey and are only for reference.) Costs are in US {Dollars} and are from the place to begin of Puerta Maya:
- Downtown: $8.00
- Uncover Mexico: $8.00
- Chankanaab: $12.00
- Chocolate Manufacturing unit: $11.00
- Playa Corona: $13.00
- Punta Sur: $35.00
- Airport: $16.00
- Full Island Tour: $100.00
Take a ferry
Cozumel is simply 12 miles from the mainland of Mexico. The ferry port is just not removed from downtown, so hopping on the ferry to see some extra sights in Mexico may make sense when you’ve got time throughout your cruise. Some excursions additionally require a ferry experience to the mainland to see Mayan Ruins or discover scenic caves.
The place to eat in Cozumel?
The non-adventurous shall be glad to know there are a couple of American staples in Cozumel. There’s a Subway, Pizza Hut, and Starbucks proper close to the Punta Langosta terminal and even a Burger King additional inland.
However for many who need a actually genuine expertise Cozumel doesn’t disappoint. There’s a myriad of eating places. You may get an informal, enjoyable eating expertise at one of many many eateries alongside the seashore or strive one thing extra upscale.
I’ve had some extremely scrumptious tacos simply by stopping at one of many native distributors alongside the shoreline. And don’t overlook to get some native churros.
Cozumel is an island that’s recognized for beautiful seafood mixed with widespread Mexican meals as tortillas, beans, and salsa. You could find inexpensive lobster dishes and loads of choices particularly in the primary metropolis of San Miguel.
After all Cozumel has the long-lasting Senor Frogs and Bubba Gump Shrimp in order for you an previous standby.
Listed here are a couple of locations we advocate for consuming in Cozumel:
- Costa Brava. Love consuming right here. Genuine Mexican meals at an inexpensive worth. Pleasant workers.
- Casa Mission. For actually native Mexican meals and seafood. Situated close to the middle of San Miguel
- La Mission Restaurant. Conventional Mexican meals proper close to the shore. Actually nice décor and nice meals.
- Guido’s Restaurant. Swiss-Italian restaurant with a stupendous patio and each day specials. Proper on the primary avenue of San Miguel with nice views of the ocean.
- Pepe’s Grill. Upscale eating with superb seafood. Owned by one of many oldest household’s on Cozumel.
Have you ever eaten in Cozumel and wish to tell us an ideal place to take a look at? Tell us within the remark part so the remainder of our readers can profit as properly.
23 Greatest Issues to do in Cozumel
So now let’s check out some issues to do in Cozumel. We’ll cowl among the greatest issues to do on this island to present you some concepts to your upcoming excursions and adventures.
1. Take a look at the superb reefs
Cozumel is a part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest coral reef system on the earth, and it’s a paradise for many who wish to dive and snorkel.
As a result of many of the island is surrounded by among the most superb coral reefs within the Caribbean Cozumel has turn into a most important attraction for hundreds of skilled divers yearly.
Even should you simply wish to lease or convey alongside some snorkeling gear it would be best to take a look at these pristine waters at one of many many coral reef places.
Greatest locations for snorkeling or diving:
- Villa Blanca Reef. Situated between 2 cruise ship piers. Wall after wall of gorgeous reefs.
- Chankanaab Reef. A part of Chankanaab Park. Reef is 300 yards from shore. Extra on Chankanaab later.
- Paradise Reef. Close to the marine park. Numerous coral and sea life to see like nurse sharks and stingrays. 3 reefs 600 ft from the shore.
- Palancar Reef. Higher for diving. Gorgeous caves and drop-offs.
- El Cielo Reef. Nice for newbie snorkelers. Shallow water. Numerous starfish.
- Coral at Dzul Ha. 10 to fifteen foot depth with loads of lobster, crab, and all types of fish. Close to seashore membership and restaurant.
- Colombia Reef. Nice for diving with 80 foot drop-off. Discover big towers of coral, caves, caverns and marine creatures.
There are a lot of extra locations you’ll be able to dive and snorkel in Cozumel, so don’t have a look at this record as exhaustive. In truth, when you’ve got an ideal reef to take a look at please tell us within the remark part under this put up. We’ll add it to the record if it appears good so everybody else can profit.
The primary time I went to Cozumel I introduced my very own snorkel gear and simply pulled over at random locations to take a look at the water. It’s actually arduous NOT to see some superb issues within the water round Cozumel.
RELATED: Greatest Locations within the Caribbean for Snorkeling
2. Go on a Boat Tour
Because the water round Cozumel is so outstanding why not take a ship experience round it so you’ll be able to see the entire thing
You are able to do this on a catamaran, glass-bottom boat, or perhaps a non-public constitution. The great factor about reserving a snorkeling or diving tour is that a few of them will contain a ship experience to the reef and you’re going to get to have a scenic boat experience on the similar time.
3. Take a Submarine Tour
Wish to see the reefs with out getting moist? Then a submarine tour is only for you. The submarine will descend 100 ft under the floor and can look by means of portholes to see superb marine life, a sunken shipwreck, and even a 400 foot drop-off generally known as The Wall.
4. Take pleasure in a Seashore Day (greatest seashores in Cozumel)
Cozumel has among the most superb seashores in all of Mexico and there are a number to select from. You may select a seashore for it’s snorkeling alternatives, it’s enjoyable environment, or for its culinary delights which might be close by.
For those who lease a car you’ll be able to simply drive round to see the totally different seashores to see which is greatest for what you need your seashore day to be like. The jap aspect of the island is rocky and uncovered to the open ocean, however there are nonetheless some hidden away spots which might be good for a seashore day.
Here’s a quick record of a few of our favourite seashores in Cozumel:
- Playa Chen Rio. On the jap aspect however giant rocks break up the surf. That is the place some locals go and it’s not normally very crowded. Some thick vegetation with sand and rocks.
- Playa Bonita. Romantic seashore with white sands and delicate waves. On the east. Mayan ruins close by.
- Playa Corona. Recognized for its nice diving and underwater surroundings. Seashore huts for shade. On the west coast.
- Playa Uvas. If you’d like a Miami Seashore sort of vibe with upscale loungers and shade spots that is your seashore.
- Playa San Francisco. Quite a lot of actions accessible at this in style 3 mile stretch of sand.
- Palancar Seashore. 13 miles south of San Miguel. Away from the hustle and bustle. Beautiful white sandy seashore.
Are any seashores close to the cruise ports in Cozumel? Whereas there are some seashores near Puerta Maya and Worldwide pier they may require a payment. Park Royal Seashore is only a 5-minute stroll from these two terminals and would require $40 per particular person to entry because it’s a part of a lodge. However the facilities and views from there are incredible.
Have your personal seashore so as to add to this record? Tell us within the feedback under.
5. Swim with stingrays
It’s an unimaginable expertise to swim with the rays at Stingray Seashore. Don’t fear, the damaging barbs have been eliminated. You may each swim and snorkel with these superb creatures. It’s only a couple minutes from downtown.
6. Go to Chankanaab Nationwide Park
It amazes me how many individuals have been to Cozumel and have by no means been to Chankanaab. It’s one in all my go-to locations on the island. It does price $21 for adults and $14 for kids to have entry to the park, however as soon as inside you will see sufficient issues for everybody to do for your entire day.
There are nice seashores, loads of shaded loungers and hammocks, a pristine lagoon, alligators, a seal and sea lion present, dolphins, manatees, and a lot extra. Wish to simply loosen up in a hammock tied to some palm bushes whereas the children go have enjoyable? That is your home in Cozumel.
If you wish to swim with dolphins this can be a excellent spot to do it as properly.
See a video of what Chankanaab is like under:
7. Discover Mayan Ruins
Cozumel is just not recognized for among the most elaborate Mayan ruins in Mexico, however there are nonetheless some value testing in case you are .
The biggest Mayan ruins in Cozumel are at San Gervasio, situated within the central a part of the island. This was a holy website devoted to the goddess of fertility.
If you’d like actually spectacular Mayan ruins you’ll be able to nonetheless see them throughout your cruise to Cozumel, however since they’re on the primary land of Mexico will probably be an all-day occasion which would require a ferry experience. Chichen Itza (not too long ago named one of many 7 wonders of the world) and Tulum are the primary Mayan websites you’ll be able to see. For those who can solely see one, take a look at Chichen Itza. It’s actually spectacular.
8. Tour the Chocolate Manufacturing unit
I did the chocolate manufacturing unit tour a couple of years in the past and located it to be a extremely attention-grabbing expertise. It’s not an enormous manufacturing unit, however you get to see how the chocolate is domestically made and you then get to make some your self. And naturally the most effective half is sampling the chocolate after you might be achieved.
It’s referred to as Kaokao Chocolate Manufacturing unit and is only a $15 or so cab experience away. I like to recommend getting reservations forward of time as a result of time slots can replenish shortly.
9. Zipline over Cozumel
There are a couple of totally different locations for zipline thrill seekers. Chankanaab does have a zipline course or you’ll be able to take a zipline course that soars over among the mangrove forest in Cozumel. You may be 60 ft above the jungle flooring and begin off from 6 totally different cover towers. A lot of the course could be achieved in about an hour so you’ll nonetheless have time for different actions.
10. Go on a Cave Tour
Among the most unimaginable caves are discovered on the mainland at Rio Secreto, the place adventurers can discover a picturesque underwater river. This place might simply be a surprise of the world. Different cave excursions begin out with an ATV experience by means of the wild again roads of Cozumel.
11. Go Horseback Using
You’ve seen the images: a scenic seashore background with somebody driving a horse alongside the shoreline. That is on my to-do record really, and Cozumel is a good place to examine it off. You may experience horseback by means of the jungle after which alongside the seashore, after which you’ll be able to cease to get one thing to eat at Mr. Sancho’s Seashore Membership.
12. Play a Spherical of Golf in Paradise
Cozumel Nation Membership is correct close to the shore and gives 18 holes of scenic magnificence. The fairways and greens will not be as lush as what you’re used to, however the wildlife and environment make up for it. It’s a few 30 minute cab experience from the cruise port.
13. Go Parasailing
The enjoyment of parasailing is within the aerial views you get to soak in. So, it’s much more pleasurable when these views are of among the most pristine water alongside Mexico. There’s simply one thing about being lots of of ft within the air, being pulled by a velocity boat. The one factor to bear in mind right here is that you could be be with a bunch. This implies you’ll have to wait your flip and should spend extra time within the boat ready than really up within the air having fun with your parasailing expertise.
14. Be part of the Manatees for a Swim Encounter
That is additionally a part of Chankanaab Park which is open from 9am to 5pm. These slow-moving creatures are not often seen within the wild so this tour gives you the power to stand up shut and private with these “Mermaids of the Sea”.
15. Be part of a Pirate Dinner Cruise
If you wish to really feel like a pirate for the day and get some nice meals together with some distinctive leisure that is the exercise for you. I’ve learn some rave critiques concerning the Jean Laffite Pirate Dinner Cruise however haven’t checked it out myself. However for many cruises this selection will happen too late within the day, so it’s actually solely doable in case you are staying in Cozumel for a couple of nights. It goes from 6pm to 9pm, however I nonetheless needed to place it on this record.
16. Hit the Retailers
You don’t’ even have to depart the cruise terminal to seek out locations to buy, however do your self and the Cozumel locals a favor by venturing out and purchasing from native distributors. T-shirts and trinkets are unimaginable inexpensive and I haven’t discovered store house owners to be too pushy in comparison with different ports.
The Royal Village Purchasing Heart has some actually attention-grabbing locations to buy, together with one place that sells all types of medieval kind armor and décor.
Everybody wants not less than 1 or 2 Mexican blankets at dwelling and you will see them all over the place in Cozumel.
You may pay in pesos or US {dollars}. In truth, you will notice a variety of indicators with costs in US {dollars}.
Essential observe: Simply watch out on utilizing native ATM machines. Final time I used an ATM machine in Cozumel I had my card data hacked. Keep on with indoor financial institution ATM’s should you can and all the time cowl your hand as you kind in your pin.
17. Uncover Mexico
You may’t see all of Mexico throughout your cruise, however this little cease will assist you to not less than really feel such as you did. The tour at Uncover Mexico Park will assist you to expertise the style, tradition, historical past, heritage, artwork, and music of Mexico. There are miniature scale fashions of well-known websites from round Mexico and a tour information will discuss you thru a few of this nation’s most necessary landmarks.
18. See the Cozumel Pearl Farm
Not many cruisers enterprise as much as the northern a part of the islands to see this family-run pearl farm, however it’s best to. After seeing how the pearls are grown and harvested you’ll be able to snorkel out to see the pearl hatchery. Whereas snorkeling you’ll be able to see an underwater life-size Virgen de Guadalupe statue. Excursions can final about 6 hours.
19. Take a Mini-Sub Dive Tour
For those who love the concept of scuba diving however you need one thing a bit easier, this is likely to be the Cozumel exercise for you. No earlier diving expertise is required. You merely “put on” a type of “sub swimsuit” that lets you go 20 ft under the water and have unobstructed views of the marine life. And with Cozumel’s fame for nice reefs and pristine coral, this can be a good thing to do whereas cruising to this lovely island.
20. Be part of the Superb Cozumel Race
Similar to you’ve seen on TV, you’ll be able to discover Cozumel whereas cracking clues, fixing mysteries, and enjoying adventurous video games with fellow vacationers. This aggressive journey will take about 4.5 hours and there’s a post-race award ceremony that follows. Folks appear to essentially get pleasure from this tour. Even when the it finally ends up raining you received’t be capable to dampen the enjoyable vibe on this exercise.
21. Swim with Whale Sharks
Certain you’ll be able to swim with dophins and stingrays on Cozumel, however should you actually wish to kick issues up a notch and take some spectacular images to your buddies again dwelling, swimming with whale sharks is the ticket. Each summer season the whale sharks are available in to the Yucatan Peninsula, so you’ll be able to snorkel together with them throughout their annual migration (June – September). The sensation of being so shut to those immense creatures is unforgettable.
22. Go to Punta Sur Eco Seashore Park
Nature lovers can indulge within the island’s largest ecological reserve at Punta Sur. Whether or not you wish to benefit from the white sandy seashores, climb the steps to the historic Celarain Lighthouse, or meet up with the native crocodiles, Punta Sur Eco Seashore Park is a gem on Cozumel. You could find quite a lot of flora, fauna, flowers, birds, and even sea turtles. Guests may also benefit from the Navigation Museum which is the previous lighthouse keeper’s dwelling. There they may study concerning the island’s wealthy historical past of Mayans and pirates that sailed the Caribbean waters.
23. Tantalize Your Style Buds with Cozumel Chef Meals Excursions
Are you a foodie? Style the total flavors of Mexico with a meals tour that allows you to pattern the most effective the islands has to supply. Cozumel Chef Meals Excursions is all-inclusive and takes you to a Yucatecan restaurant, a standard Mexican market, a bakery, and some different stops alongside the way in which on this 3 hour tour. Wish to style a very genuine quesadilla? It is a meals tour you’ll brag about while you get dwelling. The price is $80 per particular person, and the excursions usually begin at 11am, good for cruise passengers.
You can even eat at some native eating places your self. Listed here are some locations to eat in Cozumel that a few of our readers have really useful:
- Los Tacotales – A fantastic inexpensive possibility for avenue tacos and pozole in an open-air restaurant.
- Casa Cuzamil – For seafood lovers on a finances, get your repair of shrimp tacos, grilled fish, and ceviche. There’s additionally a sports activities bar right here.
- La Cocay – This Mediterranean and Italian steakhouse has a beautiful backyard setting and serves all the things from small plates and tapas to steaks and pizza.
- La Candela – A preferred place among the many locals of Cozumel, this restaurant serves Mexican and Caribbean entrees for mid-range costs. I actually loved my expertise right here. Nice parts for decent meals within the coronary heart of city.
- Ix Kool Mayan – If you’d like true, genuine Mayan dishes, that is the place for you. The next-end restaurant, this institution serves pork panucho, cochinita and different delicacies you may be arduous pressed to seek out wherever else.
- Guido’s – A mixture of seafood and Italian dishes, Guido’s gives a high-quality eating expertise with open-air seating. Each the service and meals are usually excellent.
- Buccanos At Evening – Located proper on the coast, this restaurant is thought for elegant eating and beautiful dishes. You may order seafood or native dishes at Buccanos at Evening, which is taken into account by many to be among the best locations to eat on the island.
We Wish to Hear from You
What are some issues to do in Cozumel that you’d add to the record? Tell us within the feedback under so everybody can profit.
